The Ultimate Guide to Deciding Who Will Be in Your Wedding Party

Your wedding party does more than stand with you on your big day. From planning events like your bridal shower or bachelor party to emotional support on the wedding day itself, these trusted individuals play a major role in your wedding experience. But how do you decide who makes the cut? This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to choose your wedding party for your Austin wedding.

Before we jump into today’s topic on wedding party selection, let’s tell you a little about our gorgeous vineyard wedding venue, just north of Austin. Welcome to Villa at the Vineyard! We know every great relationship starts with trust, which is why we’re all about transparency. You can find all the details about our wedding packages and pricing right on our website. Want to see more? Check out our wedding venue gallery to get a closer look at our beautiful spaces. If you can see yourself getting married here, we’d love to have you schedule a tour and experience the magic in person. Our goal? To make your wedding planning easy, fun, and totally unforgettable—just like your big day!

10 Tips for Narrowing Down Your Wedding Party

Here’s how to decide who should take on important roles in your wedding party:

1. Start with Your Siblings

If you’re close to your siblings, they’re often a natural choice for key roles.

2. Consider Long-Time Friendships

Lifelong friends who’ve been with you through thick and thin are often great selections.

3. Look at Current Friendships

While long-term friends are important, don’t forget about the people you’ve grown close to recently.

4. Factor in Your Partner’s Suggestions

Blend your lives by involving those special to your future spouse.

5. Limit for Clarity

Choose a number that works for your budget and venue size.

6. Evaluate Activity Levels

Choose people who can commit to their duties and be present when needed.

7. Be Inclusive

Non-traditional roles like mixed-gender wedding parties are increasingly popular.

8. Communicate Expectations Early

Make sure everyone knows what’s involved.

9. Go for Emotional Support

Choose people you trust emotionally.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, you know best who should be by your side.

10 Things You Need to Know About Each Wedding Party Role

Understanding the traditional duties of each role helps guide your choices.

• Maid of Honor/Matron of Honor – Organizes the bachelorette party and provides emotional support.
• Best Man – Handles groomsmen and delivers a speech.
• Bridesmaids/Groomsmen – Support through planning and on the wedding day.
• Flower Girl/Ring Bearer – Add charm and tradition to your ceremony.
• Honorary Roles (e.g., Ushers) – Non-standing roles that still contribute meaningfully.

Cristina Pruitt Photography

Does a Larger Wedding Party Increase Costs?

Yes, a larger wedding party typically increases costs through extra bouquets, boutonnieres, transportation, and gifts. Before turning your wedding into a party of 20, carefully consider your wedding budget. Villa at the Vineyard is a spaces wedding venue allowing our wedding couples more space to accommodate wedding parties of all sizes.

10 Ways to Get Non-Traditional with Wedding Party Roles

Want to shake things up? Try these ideas for a memorable and personal touch:

1. Mixed-gender wedding parties.
2. Two maids of honor or two best men.
3. Skip traditional titles entirely.
4. Include your pet!
5. Incorporate cultural traditions.
6. Make your grandparents honorary members.
7. Ask a favorite teacher or mentor to officiate.
8. Add junior bridesmaid or groomsman roles for younger siblings or relatives.
9. Have family dances instead of traditional speeches.
10. Skip the wedding party altogether!

Kelby Miller Films

How to Gently Decline Someone Who Wants to Be in Your Wedding Party

Sometimes, you may need to decline someone’s request to be part of your wedding party. Here’s how to handle it with care:

1. Be honest but considerate.
2. Explain your reasoning (e.g., keeping it intimate, budget constraints).
3. Offer another way for them to be involved, such as helping plan events.
4. Spend one-on-one time with them to make them feel special.

10 Creative Ways to Propose to Your Bridesmaids and Maid of Honor

Show your wedding party how much you appreciate them with a heartfelt proposal.

1. Create a custom gift box with their favorite wine or coffee.
2. Send a handwritten letter.
3. Gift them personalized jewelry.
4. Plan a surprise brunch or spa day proposal.
5. Use funny or sweet mugs with “Be My Bridesmaid” messages.
6. Create a collage of your favorite photos together.
7. Bake sweet treats with customized icing messages.
8. Plan a private virtual proposal if they’re distant.
9. Personalize a puzzle that reveals your question.
10. Include a subscription box with goodies they’ll love.

Kelby Miller Films

Why Villa at the Vineyard is THE Venue for Your Austin Wedding

If you’re still on the hunt for a venue, Villa at the Vineyard is your dream destination. Nestled just outside of Austin, Texas, this stunning location offers everything you’re looking for in a wedding venue.

• Picturesque Views – Rolling vineyards and scenic sunsets serve as the perfect backdrop for your big day.
• Spacious Layouts – Accommodates both intimate ceremonies and large receptions with ease.
• Customizable Spaces – Tailor the setting to match your vision, from elegant to modern.
• On-Site Amenities – Reduce the hassle with premium facilities for guests and event planning.
• Austin Accessibility – Conveniently located for your out-of-town guests.

Want to see it for yourself? Book a wedding tour at Villa at the Vineyard [here (insert link)] and take the first step toward your dream wedding.

Brooklyn Nicole Photography

Choosing your wedding party is one of the most meaningful steps in planning your big day. These are the people who will stand by your side, support you through the planning process, and help make your celebration unforgettable. While the decision can feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. By considering tradition, practicality, and your personal values, you can make choices that truly reflect the relationships that matter most to you.

If you’re ready to dive into planning your dream Austin wedding, why not start with finding the perfect venue? Schedule a tour with Villa at the Vineyard today! With its breathtaking views, elegant spaces, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to create lasting memories with your loved ones on your special day.